Best Acoustic Cellos for Chamber Music 2025

Perfect acoustic cellos for chamber-music - easy to play and learn on

Last updated: October 22, 2025 • Next update: October 29, 2025

PRICE RANGES: Under $2,000 Under $5,000

SKILL LEVELS: For Beginner For Intermediate For Professional For Advanced

GENRES & STYLES: For Classical For Chamber Music For Orchestra For Solo Performance For Contemporary Classical

BRANDS: Gewa Scala Vilagio Lothar Semmlinger Hidersine Karl Höfner Roth & Junius

Bernd Hiller & Sohn Master Cello Montagnana 4/4 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.7/5 (19 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Bernd Hiller & Sohn Master Cello Montagnana 4/4

by Bernd Hiller & Sohn

Classical Contemporary Classical Chamber Music

Key Feature:

• Wide dynamic range capability

✓ PROS

• Versatile across musical periods
• Essential orchestral voice

✗ CONS

• Sensitive to climate changes
• Requires proper setup and maintenance

Bernd Hiller & Sohn Master Cello Montagnana 4/4Master CelloSize: 4/4Model after Domenico MontagnanaOld seasoned...

⭐ 4.7/5 (19 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 568936

$16,390

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Stefan Semmlinger Orchestra No.1 Cello 4/4 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.9/5 (35 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Stefan Semmlinger Orchestra No.1 Cello 4/4

by Stefan Semmlinger

Classical Contemporary Classical Orchestra

Key Feature:

• Versatile across musical periods

✓ PROS

• Essential orchestral voice
• Expressive bowing techniques

✗ CONS

• Sensitive to climate changes
• Requires proper setup and maintenance

Stefan Semmlinger Orchestra No.1 Cello 4/4CelloSemmlinger Stradivari family modelTonewood seasoned for at least 10...

⭐ 4.9/5 (35 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 595033

$15,290

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Lothar Semmlinger No. 133A Antiqued Cello 7/8 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.7/5 (3 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Lothar Semmlinger No. 133A Antiqued Cello 7/8

by Lothar Semmlinger

Solo Performance Contemporary Classical Classical

Key Feature:

• Versatile across musical periods

✓ PROS

• Rich, warm lower register
• Versatile across musical periods

✗ CONS

• Advanced technique required
• Sensitive to climate changes

Lothar Semmlinger No. 133A Antiqued Cello 7/8Cello in Antique FinishSize: 7/8Scale: 66 cmStradivari styleSolid spruce...

⭐ 4.7/5 (3 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 586812

$4,829

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Stefan Semmlinger Orchestra No.2 Cello 4/4 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.7/5 (19 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Stefan Semmlinger Orchestra No.2 Cello 4/4

by Stefan Semmlinger

Contemporary Classical Chamber Music Orchestra

Key Feature:

• Essential orchestral voice

✓ PROS

• Rich, warm lower register
• Versatile across musical periods

✗ CONS

• Requires proper setup and maintenance
• Heavy and awkward to transport

Stefan Semmlinger Orchestra No.2 Cello 4/4CelloSize: 4/4Semmlinger Stradivari family modelMade in GermanyTonewood...

⭐ 4.7/5 (19 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 595035

$19,690

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Bernd Hiller & Sohn Master Cello Stradivari 4/4 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 5.0/5 (28 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Bernd Hiller & Sohn Master Cello Stradivari 4/4

by Bernd Hiller & Sohn

Solo Performance Classical Orchestra

Key Feature:

• Essential orchestral voice

✓ PROS

• Rich, warm lower register
• Essential orchestral voice

✗ CONS

• Heavy and awkward to transport
• Advanced technique required

Bernd Hiller & Sohn Master Cello Stradivari 4/4Master CelloSize: 4/4Model after Antonio StradivariOld seasoned...

⭐ 5.0/5 (28 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 568937

$16,390

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Scala Vilagio Scuola Italiana Cello GO2 4/4 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.6/5 (26 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Scala Vilagio Scuola Italiana Cello GO2 4/4

by Scala Vilagio

Orchestra Classical Chamber Music

Key Feature:

• Expressive bowing techniques

✓ PROS

• Versatile across musical periods
• Essential orchestral voice

✗ CONS

• Advanced technique required
• Sensitive to climate changes

Scala Vilagio Scuola Italiana Cello GO2 4/4CelloSize: 4/4Matteo Gofriller modelSolid spruce topBeautifully flamed solid...

⭐ 4.6/5 (26 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 569108

$7,359

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Luca Zerilli Cello Montagnana Napoli 4/4 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 5.0/5 (36 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

8/10

Luca Zerilli Cello Montagnana Napoli 4/4

by Luca Zerilli

Orchestra Classical Solo Performance

Key Feature:

• Expressive bowing techniques

✓ PROS

• Essential orchestral voice
• Wide dynamic range capability

✗ CONS

• Advanced technique required
• Sensitive to climate changes

Luca Zerilli Cello Montagnana Napoli 4/44/4 CelloMade in Italy by master luthier Luca ZerilliA slightly smaller and...

⭐ 5.0/5 (36 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 577792

$26,290

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Anton Stöhr & Sohn Faszination Cello Strad. Sup. - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.6/5 (31 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Anton Stöhr & Sohn Faszination Cello Strad. Sup.

by Anton Stöhr & Sohn

Classical Orchestra Contemporary Classical

Key Feature:

• Versatile across musical periods

✓ PROS

• Essential orchestral voice
• Versatile across musical periods

✗ CONS

• Heavy and awkward to transport
• Requires proper setup and maintenance

Anton Stöhr & Sohn Faszination Cello Strad. Sup.CelloSize: 4/4Stradivari Superior modelMade by master violin maker...

⭐ 4.6/5 (31 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 565258

$13,750

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Hidersine Vivente Academy Cello Set 4/4 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 5.0/5 (31 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Hidersine Vivente Academy Cello Set 4/4

by Hidersine

Orchestra Classical Contemporary Classical

Key Feature:

• Rich, warm lower register

✓ PROS

• Expressive bowing techniques
• Wide dynamic range capability

✗ CONS

• Expensive quality instruments
• Sensitive to climate changes

Hidersine Vivente Academy Cello Set 4/4Cello SetSize: 4/4Solid selected spruce topSolid "graphic flamed"...

⭐ 5.0/5 (31 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 571222

$1,154

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Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello Set A/E - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#10

⭐ 4.9/5 (27 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello Set A/E

by Roth & Junius

Chamber Music Classical Solo Performance

Key Feature:

• Wide dynamic range capability

✓ PROS

• Versatile across musical periods
• Rich, warm lower register

✗ CONS

• Expensive quality instruments
• Sensitive to climate changes

Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello Set A/E*Bundle offer comprising*, Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello...

⭐ 4.9/5 (27 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 610164

$1,804

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Lothar Semmlinger No. 135A Antiqued Cello 7/8 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#11

⭐ 4.9/5 (3 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Lothar Semmlinger No. 135A Antiqued Cello 7/8

by Lothar Semmlinger

Chamber Music Contemporary Classical Solo Performance

Key Feature:

• Essential orchestral voice

✓ PROS

• Essential orchestral voice
• Wide dynamic range capability

✗ CONS

• Sensitive to climate changes
• Heavy and awkward to transport

Lothar Semmlinger No. 135A Antiqued Cello 7/8Cello in Antique FinishSize: 7/8Scale: 66 cmMaster instrumentStradivari...

⭐ 4.9/5 (3 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 586816

$7,689

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Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello Set A/B - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#12

⭐ 4.9/5 (14 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello Set A/B

by Roth & Junius

Solo Performance Chamber Music Orchestra

Key Feature:

• Versatile across musical periods

✓ PROS

• Versatile across musical periods
• Rich, warm lower register

✗ CONS

• Advanced technique required
• Heavy and awkward to transport

Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello Set A/B*Bundle offer comprising*, Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello...

⭐ 4.9/5 (14 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 610163

$1,804

Buy at Thomann View Details

Edgar Russ - Sound of Cremona Marco Dotti Gore - Booth Cello - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#13

⭐ 4.7/5 (51 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

6/10

Edgar Russ - Sound of Cremona Marco Dotti Gore - Booth Cello

by Edgar Russ - Sound of Cremona

Contemporary Classical Chamber Music Solo Performance

Key Feature:

• Versatile across musical periods

✓ PROS

• Wide dynamic range capability
• Essential orchestral voice

✗ CONS

• Heavy and awkward to transport
• Sensitive to climate changes

Edgar Russ - Sound of Cremona Marco Dotti Gore - Booth CelloCelloAntonio Stradivari "Gore - Booth 1710"...

⭐ 4.7/5 (51 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 584261

$32,890

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Hidersine Piacenza Cello Set 4/4 - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#14

⭐ 4.8/5 (14 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Hidersine Piacenza Cello Set 4/4

by Hidersine

Contemporary Classical Orchestra Classical

Key Feature:

• Expressive bowing techniques

✓ PROS

• Essential orchestral voice
• Versatile across musical periods

✗ CONS

• Sensitive to climate changes
• Expensive quality instruments

Hidersine Piacenza Cello Set 4/4Cello SetSize: 4/4Solid selected hand-carved spruce topSolid flamed maple bodyEbony...

⭐ 4.8/5 (14 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 571228

$1,528

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Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello An/Bw - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#15

⭐ 4.9/5 (34 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello An/Bw

by Roth & Junius

Classical Chamber Music Contemporary Classical

Key Feature:

• Rich, warm lower register

✓ PROS

• Essential orchestral voice
• Expressive bowing techniques

✗ CONS

• Heavy and awkward to transport
• Requires proper setup and maintenance

Roth & Junius Orchestra Cello Antiqued BwCelloSize: 4/4Solid spruce topSolidslightly flamed maple backPegs and...

⭐ 4.9/5 (34 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 610158

$1,749

Buy at Thomann View Details

How to Choose the Best Acoustic Cellos

Budget Planning

• Under $200: Entry-level
• $200-$500: Intermediate
• $500-$1000: Advanced
• $1000+: Professional

Quality Check

• Sound clarity & tone
• Build materials & finish
• Hardware durability
• Overall craftsmanship

Key Features

• Your musical style
• Skill level match
• Intended use case
• Brand reputation

Frequently Asked Questions

Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.

Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.

Higher-priced acoustic cellos typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.

Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.

Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.

Best Acoustic Cellos for Chamber Music 2025

Bernd Hiller & Sohn Master Cello Montagnana 4/4

Stefan Semmlinger Orchestra No.1 Cello 4/4

Lothar Semmlinger No. 133A Antiqued Cello 7/8

Stefan Semmlinger Orchestra No.2 Cello 4/4

Bernd Hiller & Sohn Master Cello Stradivari 4/4

Scala Vilagio Scuola Italiana Cello GO2 4/4

Luca Zerilli Cello Montagnana Napoli 4/4

Anton Stöhr & Sohn Faszination Cello Strad. Sup.

Hidersine Vivente Academy Cello Set 4/4

Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello Set A/E

Lothar Semmlinger No. 135A Antiqued Cello 7/8

Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello Set A/B

Edgar Russ - Sound of Cremona Marco Dotti Gore - Booth Cello

Hidersine Piacenza Cello Set 4/4

Roth & Junius Europe Orchestra Cello An/Bw

How to Choose the Best Acoustic Cellos

Budget Planning

Quality Check

Key Features

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for when buying acoustic cellos?

How much should I spend on acoustic cellos?

Are expensive acoustic cellos worth the investment?

What are the best brands for acoustic cellos?

Should I buy acoustic cellos online or in-store?

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